Pak look to level series against Zim

The match is a must-win affair for visitors who lost first ODI by 80 runs

Pakistan look to make amends and level the ODI series against Zimbabwe in the second One-Day International of the ongoing three-match series to be played at Bulawayo today.

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan had a disastrous start to the series, losing the opening game by 80 runs (DLS method). Batting first, Zimbabwe posted 205 runs on the board, thanks to excellent knocks from Sikandar Raza and Richard

In response, Pakistan suffered a batting collapse, losing six wickets for 60 runs before a rain-interruption paused the game. As the match couldn't be resumed, the hosts emerged victorious in the game by 80 runs via DLS method.

So, the second ODI is a must-win affair for Pakistan as another loss will result in their series defeat.

The surface at Queens Sports Club Bulawayo favoured the bowlers in the first ODI, as batters from both sides struggled to score runs. Statistically, only 265 runs were scored in 61.2 overs across both innings at a modest run rate of 4.32. So, expect the bowlers from both sides to play key roles once again.

There could be a hint of seam movement for the fast bowlers early on with the new ball, with the wicket getting slightly better to bat as the game progresses. The spinners will get some turn off the surface, particularly in the latter half of the game. Considering the venue's track record, the toss-winner will likely bowl first.

Players to watch out for at Queens Sports Club Bulawayo are experienced Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza who can play a handy role for the Chevrons in this match.

The veteran cricketer showcased his all-round attributes in the first ODI, scoring 39 runs and scalping two crucial wickets.

Pacer Blessing Muzarabani was also exceptional with the ball in the first ODI, recording clinical figures of two for nine in five overs and troubled the Pakistani batters, especially in the powerplay.

Meanwhile, for Pakistan, young left-arm spinner Faisal Akram will be player to watch. He showed his class with the ball, scalping three wickets in the first ODI at this venue.

Dashing Pakistan opener Saim Ayub will be another player to watch out for. He batted superbly in the ODI series against Australia earlier this month but was dismissed for 17 in the first ODI here.

However, he is a dangerous player and can take the game away from Zimbabwe if he is on song.

ICC Champions Trophy tour concludes in Pakistan

The ICC Champions Trophy's tour in Pakistan concludes today. The trophy is set to be transported to Afghanistan, marking the next stop on its international journey.

During its time in Pakistan, the trophy traveled across various cities, starting from Islamabad and visiting Murree, Nathia Gali, Abbottabad, Khanpur Dam, Taxila, and Karachi. It has now reached the PCB Headquarters in Lahore, wrapping up its Pakistan leg.

The trophy will be in Afghanistan from November 26 to 28, followed by Bangladesh from December 10 to 13. After Bangladesh, it will move to South Africa, where the tour will continue from December 15 to 22.

The Champions Trophy's itinerary also includes Australia from December 25 to January 5, New Zealand from January 6 to 11, and England from January 12 to 14. The final stop of the tour will be in India from January 15 to 26.